SRINAGAR: A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) met Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha in Jammu to discuss pressing issues faced by the business community. They also handed over a memorandum highlighting key concerns. The meeting took place in Jammu on Thursday.
One of the primary sectors discussed was Tourism, where the delay in renewing Tourism Registration Licenses for various establishments such as hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and houseboats was addressed. The absence of a Single Window system, non-compliance with Ease of Doing Business norms, and multiple NOCs were identified as major hurdles, demanding urgent attention.
Concerns about the deteriorating infrastructure in the hospitality sector, particularly the non-issuance of permissions for repairs, renovation, and reconstruction of hotels in prominent tourist destinations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Srinagar, were also raised. The KCCI emphasised the need to upgrade these properties to meet modern amenities and facilities.
In the realm of Industry, the KCCI sought the Lieutenant governor’s intervention in the implementation of Industrial Policies, urging him to address various industry-related issues.
The meeting also delved into the Education Sector, with discussions on the tagging of 125 JKBOSE-affiliated private schools with government schools across Jammu and Kashmir. The KCCI proposed a one-year extension for these schools to comply with required compliances, taking into account the impact on thousands of employees and students.
Additionally, the standardisation of JKBOSE books in line with NEP-2020 was highlighted as an issue affecting private publishers, representatives, booksellers, and numerous families. The KCCI suggested a two-year moratorium to enable stakeholders to manage the significant capital involved.
Banking Issues were also a focal point, as the KCCI emphasised the urgent need for announcing an uncapped and longer period valid One Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme by the Jammu & Kashmir Bank. The proposed scheme would benefit both the banks and borrowers, promoting the recovery of funds and regularization of borrower accounts.
The KCCI also advocated for a Power Amnesty to Commercial Power Consumers, seeking an announcement similar to the amnesty granted to domestic consumers.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha assured the KCCI team that the raised issues would be given due attention. He acknowledged the importance of addressing these concerns and expressed his commitment to fostering a positive business environment. The President of KCCI thanked the Lt. Governor for his time and the opportunity to present these critical trade-related issues
